The Bonnie J. Addario Lung Cancer Foundation (ALCF) recognized outstanding contributors in research, treatment, and caregiving at its Simply the Best Dinner and Gala, which took place recently in San Francisco. The annual event is a celebration of survivors, hope, and determination that brings together patients with lung cancer and their families to recognize top minds in the lung cancer field.

“When we held our first gala 13 years ago, our hopes of turning lung cancer into a chronic, manageable disease seemed like a far-distant dream,” said Bonnie J. Addario, 14-year lung cancer survivor and ALCF founder. “But thanks to the work of pioneers like Drs. James Mulshine and Scott Antonia, we’re moving closer and closer each day. It’s an exciting time for lung cancer research, and we’re thankful to the many who support our efforts to advance research and patient care for helping to bring the dream within reach.”

Honorees at the event included James L. Mulshine, MD, Professor and retired graduate college Dean and Provost for Research for the Institute of Translational Medicine at Rush University, who received the Asclepios Award, which honors research pioneers in the fight to end lung cancer. Scott J. Antonia MD, PhD, Chair of the Thoracic Oncology Department at the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, was the recipient of the A Breath Away From the Cure Award, which honors individuals for excellence in oncology, early detection, and coordinated treatment. ■